Joe Root masterclass guides England to series-leveling win: England clinched a four-wicket victory over India in the second ODI on Thursday, tying the three-match series 1-1. Joe Root’s unbeaten 99 anchored a successful chase of 234, while England’s pace attack bowled India out for 233 in 44 overs.
India’s batting crumbled after a strong start. Half-centuries from Virat Kohli (65) and Shreyas Iyer (66) had India at 178 for 3 in 32 overs. However, Jofra Archer (3/47) and Gus Atkinson (3/50) triggered a collapse, taking the last seven wickets for just 55 runs.
Chasing 234, England lost openers early, falling to 8 for 2 inside four overs. India’s pacer Gurnoor Brar took 2 for 67. But Joe Root held firm, playing a composed innings. He built a 72-run stand with Will Jacks (30) for the sixth wicket, stabilizing the chase. Root then added 38 runs with Atkinson, who hit 23 not out, to seal the win with 35 balls to spare.
England reached 235 for 6 in 44.1 overs. Root’s masterful 99 not out from 133 balls was the highlight. England’s win sets up a series decider at Lord’s on Sunday.